Page 21 of King of Manhattan

Vince's family had been surprised, to say the least, when he announced his decision to go legitimate. Some had been supportive, others skeptical. But they're all coming today, a show of unity I hope bodes well for our future.

"It'll be fine," Vince assures me. "They're going to love you. How could they not?"

I raise an eyebrow at him. "Oh, I don't know. Maybe because I'm the reason their golden boy went straight?"

Vince chuckles, pulling me closer. "Golden boy? I think you mean black sheep turned golden boy."

"Oh please," I scoff playfully. "We both know you were always the favorite. Your mother practically swoons every time she talks about you."

"What can I say?" Vince grins, striking a dramatic pose. "I'm swoon-worthy."

I roll my eyes, but can't help laughing. "You're ridiculous is what you are."

"Ridiculously handsome?" he suggests, waggling his eyebrows.

"Ridiculously humble, clearly," I retort, but I'm smiling as I say it.

The doorbell rings before Vince can respond. He gives my hand a reassuring squeeze before going to answer it.

The next hour is a whirlwind of introductions and conversation. Vince's mother, Maria, envelops me in a warm hug that instantly puts me at ease. His sisters, Sophia and Gianna, are friendly and curious, peppering me with questions about how Vince and I met.

"So, Emily," Sophia leans in conspiratorially, "what was your first impression of our dear brother?"

I glance at Vince, who's watching me with amused curiosity. "Well," I begin, "I thought he was charming, intelligent, and..." I pause for dramatic effect, "completely full of himself."

The sisters burst out laughing while Vince feigns offense. "I'll have you know," he protests, "I am exactly the right amount of full of myself."

"Oh, honey," I pat his arm consolingly, "keep telling yourself that."

Gianna’s eyes sparkle. "Oh, I like her," she declares. "She's perfect for you, Vince."

I'm in the kitchen later, refilling a pitcher of sangria, when I overhear a snippet of conversation that catches my attention.

"...heard from Luca recently?" It's Marco, Vince's right-hand man and closest friend.

"Not for a few weeks," Vince replies. "Last I heard, he was in Monaco. Why?"

"Word on the street is he's gotten himself into some trouble. Thought you might want to know, considering..."

Their voices lower, and I can't make out the rest. I'm about to move closer when I feel a presence behind me.

"So you're the woman who tamed Vince Russo."

I turn to find myself face to face with a man I’ve never met. He's tall and lean, with dark hair that falls into his sharp blue eyes, and a smile that seems to hold secrets. There's something about him that reminds me of Vince - a certain intensity, a hint of danger beneath the polished exterior.

"I'm Luca," he says, offering his hand. "Luca Del Toro. Vince and I go way back."

I shake his hand, noting the strength in his grip. "Emily Bennett. It's nice to meet you, Luca. I didn't realize you were coming today."

His smile widens, turning slightly mischievous. "I'm full of surprises. Just dropped in to say hello to the family." His eyes flick over my shoulder, and I turn to see Vince approaching, a mix of surprise and wariness on his face.

"Luca," Vince says, his tone carefully neutral. "I didn't expect to see you here."

Luca shrugs, the picture of nonchalance. "You know me, always turning up where I'm least expected." He turns back to me. "It was lovely to meet you, Emily. I can see why Vince is so smitten." With a wink, he saunters off to mingle with the other guests.

Vince wraps an arm around my waist, pulling me close. "You okay?" he murmurs.

I nod, leaning into him. "Who is he?" I ask quietly.

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